Replacing attic insulation can go a long way in helping your home achieve your desired level of comfort. Besides lowering rapidly increasing energy costs, the improved indoor air quality can help you resolve health complications and make your home feel less drafty. Read on to learn more about attic insulation replacement.
Things To Consider Before Attic Insulation Replacement
Though it doesn’t take much to replace attic insulation, the process involves several elements you should consider, such as:
- Target R-value
- Climate type
- Attic size
- Age of insulation
R-Value
R-value calculates your insulation’s ability to resist the flow of heat. Most experts recommend getting insulation with an R-value of 3.8.
Insulation According to the Climate Type
If you live in an area with extreme weather, you will need insulation with a higher R-value because it offers more energy-efficient coverage.
Age of Your House
Older homes tend to need more insulation than newer homes do.
Size of Your Attic
The amount of insulation you require will also depend on your attic’s size.
Types of Insulating Materials
You can choose from various types of materials when you want to replace insulation in your attic space, including:
- Cellulose: Cellulose consists of materials like straw, newspapers, and cardboard and has an R-value of 3.8 per inch.
- Fiberglass: This material has an average R-value of 2.7 and comprises light woven fiber that you can cut easily.
- Recycled Denim: Denim provides a non-toxic and easy-to-install option, with an R-value of 3.5. However, it tends to be expensive.
- Mineral Wool: This option comes in either rock wool or slag wool. Rock wool is natural, while slag consists of molten metal waste products.
Consider Which Attic Insulation Is Right for Your Home
Besides insulating materials, you will need to select from different types of insulation, with each type of insulation suitable for specific scenarios.
Foam Board Insulation
This type of insulation comprises materials like polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane.
With foam board boasting high R-values that range between 4 and 6.5, it can provide twice the amount of thermal resistance compared to other materials of a similar thickness. Furthermore, since it doesn’t accumulate moisture, it is suitable for areas with high humidity.
Spray Foam Insulation
You can create this insulation by spraying liquid polyurethane on your attic’s surfaces and wall cavities, leaving the polyurethane to solidify. While spray foam attic insulation costs more, it is the most effective at lowering the transmission of cold and hot air.
It has two types:
- Closed-Cell: Here, professionals fill the cells with gas to help the foam expand. It has an R-value of 6.2 per inch.
- Open-Cell: Installers fill cells with air, giving them a spongy texture. This type has a 3.7 R-value.
Blanket Insulation
This insulation mainly consists of fiberglass and comes in batts and rolls. Though it might be affordable, it doesn’t prove as effective, with standard batts and rolls having an R-value between 2.9 and 3.8.
Blown-In Attic Insulation or Loose-Fill Insulation
You can create this insulation type by blowing in a paper-like material that consists of fiberglass, rock wool, or cellulose material. Depending on the material, it can have an R-value of either 2.2 or 3.8.
Radiant and Reflective Insulation
This insulation works by reflecting heat away, using a reflective barrier like aluminum foil on top of polyethylene to create an air pocket and minimize heat transfer.
Tips and Tricks To Avoid Wrong Insulation
Let’s review some tips that will help you achieve proper insulation. These tips include:
- Cover ceiling joists to ensure the insulation firmly stays in place
- Always measure the area that needs insulation before cutting the product
- Do not compress the insulation because this causes it to lose its R-value
- Do not block airflow at the eaves during installation
- Avoid placing blanket insulation over air vents
- Avoid covering your attic’s air vents because they are necessary for adequate airflow
- Do not install insulation over electrical wiring because this might be a fire hazard
Cost of Attic Insulation
One additional aspect we have not touched on yet includes the cost to replace insulation in your attic. Attic insulation costs range from $1 to $7 per square foot. The precise cost of the insulation will depend on various factors, including the insulation material you use and the amount needed to insulate your attic.
Maintain the Best Temperature in Your Attic
Get in touch with Insulation Co. LLC and let our well-trained, experienced team help you maintain the best temperature in your attic. We guarantee professional services that promise to meet your desired results.
Call Insulation Co. LLC today at 425-903-6453 for professional attic insulation.